sources: Pixabay
Joseph N. Mariano, Direct Selling Association’s President commented: – The U.S. direct selling & network marketing channel experienced record-setting sales and growth during the pandemic. As expected, in 2021 the number of direct sellers has moved closer to pre-pandemic levels after the significant increase in 2020. The impact our channel had on local economies, its philanthropic contributions to communities across the country, and the demonstrated resilience of the business model represent ongoing momentum for stable, sustainable growth.
The direct sales channel generated $42.7 billion in retail sales in 2021 – up 6.4% over a record-breaking 2020. The number of direct sellers decreased by 5.2% over 2020’s record high, with 7.3 million U.S. entrepreneurs doing business on a part-time or full-time basis.
In 2021, 44.6 million preferred customers and discount buyers purchased through the direct sales channel, an increase of 7.2% over 2020. The growth coming from preferred customers was notable.
– Since 1995, Nathan Associates has been proud to work with DSA analyzing the Growth & Outlook Survey data and conducting extensive secondary research to develop industry-wide estimates for the U.S. direct selling industry. As a third-party international economic consulting firm, we deliver methodologically sound industry-wide estimates to help DSA serve as a trusted source of data on the full direct selling channel in the U.S. – comments Paul Bourquin, principal at Nathan Associates.